Apple manufacturing partner Foxconn is working on a wireless charging module for the forthcoming iPhone 8, which is due to be released next year.
The introduction of the wireless charging feature in the iPhone is part of Appleâs attempt to revamp the design of the phone to boost sales during the 10th anniversary of the handset.
However, it is not yet clear if all iPhone models set for release next year will be fitted with the wireless charging feature.
A source with knowledge on the matter explained: “But whether the feature can eventually make it into Apple’s updated devices will depend on whether Foxconn can boost the yield rate to a satisfactory level later on.”
Earlier in the year, Bloomberg said that Apple was working with partners in Asia and the US in the development of wireless charging technology to incorporate in its mobile devices expected next year.
The cutting edge technology would allow the iPhone 8 and new iPads to be charged from farther away than the traditional charging mats. Apple was looking to deal with technical barriers including loss of power over distance.
Google and Samsung are among Appleâs market rivals that have smartphones supporting wireless charging that will require proximity to a charging plate.
If the distance between the transmitter and the receiver is longer, then the power transfer efficiency may reduce, which means the battery will take longer to charge.
Apple was said to be working with Energous, a company working in the development of WattUp wireless charging, which enables wire free charging from distances up to 15 feet.
This May, Apple hired two former engineers from wireless charging startup uBeam with expertise in wireless charging and ultrasonic technology. In the past two years Apple has hired more than a dozen employees with expertise in wireless charging.
